Turkey shoots down Russian jet for airspace violation near Syrian border

Two Turkish F-16's shot down a Russian-made SU-24 jet on Nov. 24 near the Syrian border after it violated Turkish airspace, presidential sources said.

Turkey shot down the jet after it failed to heed the warnings within the rules of engagement.

Initial reports said the jet belonged to Russia, but presidential sources later clarified that the jet's nationality was unknown.

The Turkish Armed Force also stated that the jet of "unknown nationality" had been warned 10 times in five minutes about its violation of the airspace. 

Meanwhile, a Turkish official told Reuters that two warplanes approached Turkish border and were warned before one of them was shot down. 

The jet crashed into tents in Latakia's Yamadi village near the Syrian border where Turkmens are currently staying, according to Turkmen sources. Two pilots were seen landing with the aid of parachutes, the witnesses said.

One of the pilots was killed and the other was captured by Turkmen forces in the region CNN Türk reported, citing local sources.

However, Turkmen rebels claimed that they killed two Russian pilots after they auto-ejected, Do?an news agency reported.

Russian helicopters are currently searching the area to reach the pilots along with the wreckage of the jet, Do?an News Agency reported.

Meanwhile, Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davuto?lu spoke with Chief of Staff Gen. Hulusi Akar and Foreign Minister Feridun Sinirlio?lu regarding the incident, the Prime Minister's Office said.

Turkey will consult with NATO and the United Nations on the developments at the border with Syria, the PM's Office added.

Akar also informed President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an about the incident, NTV reported.

Turkish...